Finding the Best Windows Host: From Cheap Windows VPS Hosting to Managed Plans
Navigating the path to the best Windows VPS hosting is a daunting journey — but one sure to reward you with fame and riches once you emerge victoriously.
Well, maybe you’ll just see increased traffic, better conversion rates, faster page loads, and higher SEO rankings. Most online businesses would take those perks, too.
Fortunately, you have us to guide you through your web host expedition. Today’s adventure takes place in the wilds of Windows virtual private server hosting, and the first stop on our itinerary pulling back the curtain on how we identify the best VPS Windows hosting provider.
Away we go!
Features We Look For When Conducting a Windows VPS Hosting Review
Before we head out, let’s make sure we know what landmarks to look for on the road. As we were conducting our in-depth reviews that led us to endorse the top hosts above, we had a few hallmarks on our mind:
- A choice of Windows operating system versions
- Compatibility with Windows-friendly technologies such as ASP and C#
- The Plesk control panel (or similar management interface)
- SSD storage and performance boosts
- A hefty amount of RAM and a boatload of computing power
- Options for managed or unmanaged VPS web hosting
- Monitoring and security features to ensure your application or website is protected
- Microsoft SQL Server (or another SQL database alternative)
- A strong uptime guarantee of 99.99% or better, ideally
- Any other Windows-specific support (like KVM virtualization)
When you inevitably notice a recurring theme among our reviews, now you’ll understand why. The best Windows hosts have honed in on what makes a pleasant VPS hosting experience for hosting customers who prefer the Windows operating system.
The Windows platform is not a super common hosting solution, with the market heavily weighted toward the Linux VPS web server. Several hosts we love, such as Bluehost, HostGator, and A2 Hosting, recently ended their Windows VPS hosting plan.
But don’t let us scare you — the virtual private server hosts that offer Windows-based services recognize the opportunity to serve users like you and specialize in operating a secure, fast, and user-friendly Windows infrastructure.
Long story short, each VPS hosting provider on this page has zeroed in on common Windows users’ needs and are ready to take the extra steps to make them happen.
Let’s take a look at the all-stars in this particular hosting niche.
Best Windows VPS Hosting Overall
If you’re looking for best-in-class VPS hosting for Windows — the most reliable and powerful, yet cost-competitive — Hostwinds is king. The service provider touts state-of-the-art hardware on which you can install your choice of software, including operating system.
Each highly configurable VPS hosting plan comes with the peace of mind of managed services and, of course, the around-the-clock attention of an attentive support team.
Instead of a managed hosting plan, more experienced or daring site owners may opt for unmanaged hosting to take more control of their Windows VPS server. Either way, Hostwinds excels.
Best Cheap Windows VPS Hosting
We recognize that not everyone is interested in or willing to blow hundreds or thousands of dollars on an experience, even a stellar web hosting experience. We kept budgetary concerns in mind when choosing our favorite hosts for an affordable virtual server.
Bringing free SSD storage, full root access, and your choice of Linux or Windows operating system, Hostwinds again offers a ton of VPS bang for just a few bucks a month. We found that the Hostwinds Windows VPS offering is cost-effective and feature-rich.
The hosting service is a bargain in Windows-friendly virtual server hosting, and the Hostwinds team is constantly innovating new in-house technologies to extend their server functionality and optimize their customers’ hosting experiences.
Best Managed Windows VPS Hosting
Managed VPS hosting services are akin to leasing a vehicle. You handle the software, as you would take care of gas and routine oil changes, while your hosting company maintains the infrastructure in the same way the dealership would take care of any major body maintenance. Sure, it costs more, but it’s worth it for many folks who just don’t want the hassle.
All that to say, a Liquid Web managed VPS plan is like renting a sports car for your road trip. Beginning with the free migration services (either from another VPS provider or shared hosting) and instant provisioning, Liquid Web’s VPS hosting service presents a white-glove service and a stress-free hosting environment.
While you manage your website or app’s development, Liquid Web will handle operating system updates, virtual and physical server patches, and prompt bug fixes. Your fully customizable Windows server is in good hands — and each Liquid Web’s Windows VPS plan is backed by a 100% uptime guarantee.
(Side note, both Hostwinds and Liquid Web offer a variety of cloud server packages that can add enhanced value and scalability for fast-growing websites and applications.)
Consider Our Windows VPS Hosting Comparison Your Server Tour Guide
Have you arrived at your destination or top choice for a Windows VPS plan?
We’ll end our tour of the best virtual server hosts for Windows fans here, and we hope you enjoyed the journey!
As you map out your next trip, plan which features to pack and consider the best route for your family or business. Be sure to keep our experts’ findings and ratings in mind.
In fact, you can go ahead and bookmark our host reviews now, and refer back to them the next time you’re ready to hit the road toward finding another best Windows VPS hosting home. With any luck, you’ll be so successful with your VPS host that you’re ready to move on to dedicated hosting!